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Designer Focus: Dareen Hakim

[New York] - November 5, 2011 - Dareen Hakim was born in Beirut and grew up enveloped in a culture vibrant with the ancient beauty and sensual poetry of Lebanese life.

Influenced by Lebanon's dynamic landscape, a magical swirl of archaeological ruins juxtaposed with gleaming glassy high-rises, Dareen became dually intrigued by the fluid mosaic of modern fashion set against the country's historical backdrop. This contrast of old and new influences her still today, contributing to the mix of authenticity and modern elegance in her coveted designs.

Sumptuous leathers, arabesque calligraphy, dramatic hues - all form the basis of style behind each Dareen Hakim creation. Celebrating at once tradition and function, her debut collection's clutches enjoy a favored status among women inspired to carry a contagiously cool piece of art, one that instantly communicates both warmth and chic.

The inscriptions on a Dareen Hakim bag reflect the designer's fascination with the momentous spirit of her childhood. Within the turmoil of Lebanon's earlier days, she saw people value life and cherish every day as though it was their last. This combined feeling of resilience, strength, happiness, love, laughter and appreciation of beauty in life's simple pleasures left an impression she shares through the subtle scripted messages on her bags.

Currently dividing her time between New York and California, Dareen also often travels back home in search of childhood wonders and new inspirations. She can constantly be found sketching designs - elaborate scribbles she will interpret with an eye to creating a handbag every modern woman, young or wise, will want to count as her own.

The V Clutch -
Flame

Are you a defying trendsetter who dares to stand out from the crowd?

This futuristic clutch breaks all the rules; with its smooth lambskin leather exterior and edgy dimensional detailing, right up to its fierce pointed tips.

Go gaga over this innovative clutch, wearing it day and night. Available in 4 seductively addicting colors.

The V Tote - Jade

The deep V silhouette on this tote is definitely high-fashion edge; easily identifiable as contemporary, sharp and Victoria Beckham-inspired. Distressed metallic handles that offset this sleek tote will add that extra zest to any outfit.

Conceal your tiny valuables in its secure hidden inside pockets, and store all of life's necessities in its spacious middle compartment. Trendy, bold, yet functional, this tote is durable enough to handle pretty much anything life throws in its way!

Bengaline lining in signature fuschia. Hidden magnet closure.
Three inner pockets; two open and one zipper.
Price: $545.00